Last weekend I took Hector's Get Out of Auto Mode class in Las Vegas. It was the best decision I've made and was money well spent! I had some knowledge going into the class from a brief 2 hour presentation class, but this goes well beyond that. He helps you understand your camera, and then puts you in situations to help give you hands on experience. It is an all day workshop, but goes quickly. He is very well prepared and creates an area you use for the day. He has a tent and chairs for a comfortable learning environment and provides water, Gatorade and snacks to help get you through the day. You do have homework he assigns the week before, but it helps get everyone to a place where everyone has a similar understanding of the camera, which helps the class progress. When you arrive, you receive a very large handbook in a 3 ring binder of everything you go over in the class, which is great to look back at as you practice. His hands-on exercises helped demonstrate a concept and made it easier to learn and remember. This was probably one of the best classes in general that I've taken and felt like I got a ton out of it. I feel a lot more confident in the pictures I am taking now and look forward to using this as a foundation to continue to grow from. Hector is a phenomenal teacher and a great photographer. If you are even considering taking one of his classes, do it. You won't regret it.